The Hoopoes

So called because of the soft, low ‘poop poop’ noise that they make, Hoopoes have been seen frequently in the gardens of St Germain over the last few days.  In fact, the people here call them ‘Pupu’ because of this. Hoopoes can be seen walking along the ground, probing and picking at the ground with their bill, taking grubs, insects and worms. With their unique fan-shaped crest and dazzling pattern of black and white markings, they are a truly spectacular bird. They must be nesting nearby in a hole in a tree or wall.

It was seeing a Hoopoe in our garden here in 2008 which was the catalyst for my bird watching activities over the last four years. They are a very rare visitor to the UK. At the time, having no idea what bird group they belonged to, I found it hard to identify. However, while browsing the magazines in a newsagents shop, I opened the middle pages of a bird magazine and there it was – the magnificent Hoopoe!


Texte et photos de Mary ATKINSON